1 introduction to group dynamics group dynamics are the influential actions, processes, and changes...
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1Introduction to Group
Dynamics
Group dynamics are the influential actions, processes, and changes that occur within and between groups. Groups come in all shapes and sizes and their functions are many and varied, but their influence is universal. The tendency to join with others in groups is perhaps the single most important characteristic of humans, and the processes that unfold within these groups leave an indelible imprint on their members and on society. To understand people, one must understand groups and their dynamics.
What is a group? What are some common
characteristics of groups? Are there different types of
groups, and do people distinguish between these groups?
What assumptions guide researchers in their studies of groups and their dynamics?
Why study groups and their dynamics?
What topics are included in the scientific study of group dynamics?
Introduction to Group Dynamics
The Nature of Groups
Defining Groups
Describing Groups
Classifying Groups
Perceiving Groups
The Nature of Group Dynamics
The Scientific Study of Groups
A Multilevel Approach to the Study of Groups
The Significance of Groups
Topics in Contemporary Group Dynamics
Group Dynamics is Dynamic
Preview
Groups vary in size from dyads and triads to very large aggregations, such as mobs and audiences.
Two or more
individuals who are
connected by and
within social
relationships. Members are connected—linked—
together; these relationships are memberships
In
Out
Unlike networks, groups usually have boundaries that define who is in the group and who is not
Unlike categories, members are socially connected, not just in the same grouping or collection (e.g., all men, bricklayers…)
But note: As social identity theory explains, in many
cases broad social categories can become psychologically meaningful to members, and
in those cases social categories function very much
like dynamic, socially based groups
Defining Groups
The Nature of Groups
Defining Groups
The Nature of Groups
Groups range widely in size, but
the larger the group the more
relationships required to sustain
it.
Describing Groups
Interaction Goals Interdependence Structure Unity
Interaction: What people do in groupsRelationshi
p interaction
(sustaining relationships, encouraging
others, complaining,
etc.).
Task interaction (problem solving,
providing guidance, coordination, etc.).
Describing Groups
Interaction Goals Interdependence Structure Unity
Interdependence: The state of being
dependent to some degree on other people
Describing Groups
Interaction Goals Interdependence Structure Unity
Structure: The underlying pattern of roles, norms, and relations among members that organizes groups
Describing Groups
Interaction Goals Interdependence Structure Unity
Social Cohesion
Task Cohesion
Collective Cohesion
Emotional Cohesion
Structural Cohesion
TYPES OF GROUPS
Primary groups
Social groups
Collectives
Categories
Perceiving groups: people intuitively draw distinctions between groups—some look groupier than others
1 (not at all a group) to 9 (very much a group)
Introduction to Group Dynamics
… a "field of inquiry dedicated to advancing knowledge about the nature of groups"
(Cartwright & Zander, 1968, p. 7).
The Nature of Groups
Defining Groups
Describing Groups
Classifying Groups
Perceiving Groups
The Nature of Group Dynamics
The Scientific Study of Groups
A Multilevel Approach to the Study of Groups
The Significance of Groups
Topics in Contemporary Group Dynamics
Group Dynamics is Dynamic
Gustave le Bon, Psychologie des Foules
Wilhelm Wundt, Volkerpsychologie
Emile Durkheim, collective consciousness
Floyd Allport, group fallacy
Kurt Lewin, interactionism
B = f (P, E)
The Nature of Group Dynamics
The Scientific Study of Groups
Orientation (forming)
Conflict (storming)
Structure (norming)
Performance (performing)
Dissolution (adjourning)
Exchange of background personal information, uncertainty, tentative
communication
Dissatisfaction, disagreement, challenges to leader and procedures, cliques form
Cohesiveness, agreement on procedures , standards, and roles, improved
communication
Focus on the work of the group, task completion, decision making, cooperation
Departures, withdrawal, decreased dependence, regret
Tuckman’s theory of
group development
Micro level: focus on the individual (psychological)
Meso (group) level: focus on the group and social context (sociological)
Macro level: focus on organizational/ community level
Multi level: adopts multiple perspectives on groups
A Multilevel Approach to the Study of Groups
The Significance of Groups
Groups influence their members
Groups influence society
The usefulness of groups
The “dark side” of groups
Larger view
Topics in Contemporary Group Dynamics
Foundations
Formation and Development
Influence and Interaction
Working in Groups
Conflict
Contexts and Applications